UK envoy Nic Hailey meets Laikipia security chiefs

The British ambassador to Kenya held a crisis meeting with security officials in Laikipia on Monday as tension in the county remained high following the shooting of world famous conservationist Kuki Gallmann.

Mr Nic Hailey’s visit took place as elders called for arrest of opposition leader Raila Odinga “for inciting herders”.

After the meeting with County Commissioner Onesmas Musyoki and police officers in Nanyuki Town, the envoy blamed politicians for the violence.

Laikipia hosts hundreds of British soldiers and investors.

“Young people, especially men, are being misused by politicians. They occupy private land and end up destroying property,” he said.

The British Government also promised to support development of the livestock industry in northern Kenya as way of creating jobs.

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Without disclosing the amount that would be channelled to the project, Mr Hailey said his government was one of the biggest donors to Kenya, spending up to Sh40 billion every year on various projects.

“Meat production has the potential to grow the local economy but violence will destroy such plans,” the diplomat said.

At Laikipia Nature Conservancy and Sosian Ranch where attacks took place on Sunday, tension was still palpable.